Thomas Gould
Ceist:206. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he is aware that there is currently no specific offence for drug-related intimidation. [6189/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 27 January 2026
Ceisteanna (206)
Freagraí scríofa
I am fully committed to helping to significantly reduce the harms caused to families and communities by the illegal drugs trade, including drug-related intimidation.
Drug-related intimidation is a pervasive issue that inflicts profound harm on individuals, families, and communities nationwide. I am conscious that such intimidation can be a terrifying experience for families, who may already be dealing with the trauma of seeing a loved-one in addiction. For the wider community, it can negatively impact their sense of safety and security. Unfortunately, we have seen several incidents of this serious and reprehensible criminal behaviour recently.
An Garda Síochána have legislative powers available to them to tackle the issue of drug related intimidation. These include, but are not limited to:
• Coercion pursuant to section 9 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997,
• Harassment pursuant to section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997,
• Blackmail, extortion and demanding money with menaces pursuant to section 17 Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994 and;
• Section 15 Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977, as amended.
I can assure the Deputy that tackling drug intimidation is a major priority for An Garda Síochána and they are successful in securing convictions and putting those responsible behind bars. The Garda Commissioner has tasked an Inspector in every Garda Division to respond to the issue of drug-related intimidation. An Garda Síochána encourage those affected to come forward and report all instances of drug-related violence and intimidation as early reporting can help them to intervene earlier and prevent such attacks.